H. J. Herkomer, or Hermann Joseph Herkomer, was a British painter and illustrator born in 1843 in Germany. He is best known for his portraits and genre scenes, often depicting the lives of working-class individuals. Herkomer's style combined realism with a touch of romanticism, making his works both relatable and visually striking. In addition to painting, Herkomer was also a skilled etcher and a pioneer in the field of art education. He founded the Herkomer School of Art in 1883, which aimed to provide practical training for aspiring artists. Herkomer's contributions to the art world continued until his death in 1910.